The E-141 EP4 is the second model to be detailed in the EP4 platform announced in December 2014. It will generate 13GWh annual energy production at sites with mean wind speeds of 6.5 metres per second, said Enercon. Two hub heights will be offered at 129 and 159 metres.
Enercon's new 4MW turbines were designed for cost-effective manufacture, simple logistics and easy site assembly, Windpower Montly reported in December. A prototype of the medium-wind speed E-126 EP4 model is being prepared now, and full serial production is set for late 2016.
The blade uses the company’s recently introduced load-reducing design, created in two parts and with improved aerodynamics, resistance to dirt and reduced sound.
A further 2MW model was also announced, rated at 2.35MW, and again suitable for low wind speeds, using a 103 metre rotor. The E-103 EP2 will offer a potential increased annual energy yield of up to 10% more than the existing E-92 model, 2.3MW medium wind speed model.
It will be available with hub heights of 98 or 138 metres.
A prototype of the 4MW model is planned for late 2016.With increasingly restrictive planning conditions in Germany, Enercon has focused on maintaining low noise output in these models, which is says will be 105.5dB for the 4MW model and 105dB for the 2MW model.
Power upgrade
A third product enhancement from Enercon comes with a power upgrade to the medium wind 3MW E-115 model, pushing its power rating to 3.2MW.
Nicole Fritsch-Nehring, Enercon managing director said: "We are going to continue driving the development of technologies with a high potential for innovation in order to lower power generation costs while increasing WEC [wind energy converters] efficiency."
